A new venture called the O'Hare Flyer is proposing a rapid rail connection between O'Hare Airport and the Old Post Office in downtown Chicago, aiming for a quick 15-minute journey. This initiative comes from a team of seasoned industry professionals, including Mark Walbrun, who previously redesigned Chicago Union Station.
The O'Hare Flyer envisions battery-powered trains operating every 15 minutes, traveling at an average speed of 80 mph, and offering tickets at a price lower than typical rideshare services. This $2.25 billion project seeks to utilize newly available freight railroad land on the Near West Side, allowing for dedicated tracks with minimal construction.
Project Details and Route
The proposed route will begin at a station just west of the Old Post Office, utilizing long-abandoned tracks beneath Canal Street. Trains will initially head south, then west, navigating a mix of existing rail lines before turning north on Canadian National tracks. The design includes a 90-foot track flyover at O'Hare to cross over taxiways.
Currently, the O'Hare Flyer team has a tentative agreement with freight company CSX and is in discussions with Canadian National and Union Pacific railroads. Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson has expressed support for the project, noting it reflects growing investor confidence in the city.
Timeline and Challenges
The project could potentially be completed within five years, with preliminary construction set to begin next year, pending necessary approvals. The trains are expected to be similar to those ordered by Metra, capable of reaching speeds up to 120 mph and covering the 20-mile distance between O'Hare and downtown efficiently.
Despite the optimism surrounding the project, experts like Joseph Schwieterman from DePaul University caution about potential risks, including reliance on debt financing and the need for strong ridership to sustain operations. Chicago's business community has long advocated for a direct rail link to O'Hare, which could significantly enhance the city's competitive edge in business and tourism.
As the O'Hare Flyer aims to establish a world-class transportation system, it could mark a significant step forward for Chicago, addressing long-standing transportation challenges and improving connectivity for travelers.
